Cricket
Motorsport
Basketball test
League - Test
Combat Sports
Netball
Football
Melbourne Cup bound? Is Strictly Business a Cup calibre horse?
Connor Scanlon • May 3rd, 2026 1:46 pm
Just a week ago, after the Group 1 Australasian Oaks (2000m) was run, questions surrounded the 2025 VRC Crown Oaks (25000m) Strictly Business, and whether she should end her autumn campaign early and head to the paddock.
The daughter of Grunt hadn’t returned well, finishing third-last finish in the Alexandra Stakes (1600m), second-last in the Country Oaks (2000m), and a 13th in the Australasian Oaks.
But despite criticism on the filly, trainer Thomas Carberry backed his three-year-old in to race in the Group 1 SA Derby (2500m) on Saturday.
She ended up running second to Wigmore by just 0.11 lengths and now has two excellent runs across 2500m under her belt.
Looking ahead into the spring, RSN's Nick and Trav Noonan revealed that the $10 million Melbourne Cup is now an option for both Strictly Business and Wigmore, as those three-year-olds will likely be accepted for the race that stops a nation.
Nick: “They'll both get in, so that would be the big ticks for them.”
Trav: “Yeah, that's the big plus for these horses that have come through three-year-old Classics."
“As a winner of a big Classic, you will be just straight into the field of a Melbourne Cup.”
However, does Strictly Business or Wigmore have what it takes to be Melbourne Cup calibre horses?
Trav Noonan doesn’t think so.
“To be frank though, these horses would start 50/1 to 100/1 if they don't improve, the likes of Strictly Business and Wigmore in a Melbourne Cup,” Trav admitted on RSN’s Correct Weight.
“But that's not to say they can't improve next preparation, and with a bit more racing under their belt and a bit more seasoning.
“I doubt it though, personally I wouldn't be saying this is Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup form.”
Strictly Business is currently $34 with Sportsbet to win the prestigious Group 1, while Wigmore isn’t available in the market yet.
Imagine what you could be buying instead. For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
